Introduction:
One of the most important decisions you have to make as a graduate student is the choice between the Internship, Professional Project, or Thesis (IPT). This page is provided as a courtesy to our students to help guide them in that selection process. Please pay close attention to the detailed information contained in this document, it may save you a lot of time and problem later.
Rumors and Stories About Thesis and Internship
There are two major problems that arise for students when selecting the IPT. First, many students are simply afraid of the idea of writing a thesis. One reason that many students fear the thesis is that they do not fully understand it. They are making decisions about their future without knowing all the details. Simply put, they let rumors and innuendo govern what should be a rational choice.
Second, many students see the term "Internship" and think that it will be very similar to that associated with undergraduate education. The reality is that a graduate internship is nothing like those found in many undergraduate programs. The major difference is the amount of work needed to complete the internship.
For these reasons we have a number of students who select an internship simply because they expect it to be easier than a thesis or professional project. The reality is that an internship may in fact require much more time and effort than a well defined thesis. This is something to strongly consider as you make the choice as to which you wish to pursue.
What are the Differences?
Thesis -- In academia, a thesis is a document that presents the author's research and findings. It is submitted in support of candidature for a degree or professional qualification. The most common reason for choosing a thesis is that the student has an interest in pursuing a higher (doctoral or terminal) degree. The thesis helps prepare the student for advanced study. Students may also choose the thesis because they are interested in research, design, or development of theoretical or practical issues within the discipline. Ultimately the thesis presents the student a chance to add new material or understanding to their respective discipline. This does not mean the student must develop a whole new theory but rather that they have been able to contribute to the broader understanding of a theory or practice.
Professional Project -- The focus of the Professional Project is on a particular problem or issue within the discipline or industry. Rather than contributing new theory or material the Professional Project concentrates the student on the management and solving of the problem or issue. In many instances the student may be required to observe or interact with the particular area of interest. As an example, a student may study the techniques applied in a criminal investigative unit to determine potential shortfalls, problems, or related issues. The student will then present their findings, along with appropriate recommendations or conclusions, in a final product. Students who plan to work in management or administrative levels are strongly encouraged to consider the Professional Project.
Internship -- A graduate internship has five specific parts.
- The student will take an active role in the selection of and securing an internship site. This is a significant part of being able to demonstrate an understanding of the specific industry or institution under study. The site must focus the student on the investigative tasks. It can be a private or public entity or institution. In most instances the internship is unpaid, so students must also arrange for living expenses while they are on site. The logistics of internship site selection and operation are an important part of the overall learning experience.
- The student must design the internship so that it maximizes exposure to the particular areas of study while also setting forth the specific learning goals. It is not enough that a student simply shows up on a jobsite, they must also have a specific set of learning outcomes defined and implemented in an effective manner. As noted, the internship must focus on an investigative tasks (or set of tasks), and the student learning goals should identify those tasks as well as the manner under which they will be performed.
- The student must define the means of measurement for success. To be considered a master of any topic the person must have an intimate understanding of the standards for success or failure. The emphasis here is on the measurement of learning success and not simply task completion.
- The student must demonstrate that others recognize the learning or success. In many instances this is accomplished by simply having a site-supervisor complete an evaluation or survey regarding the student's time on site. Again, the emphasis is on performance of the investigative tasks and not simply exposure. This means that a student must develop and maintain an exemplary working relationship with the site supervisor as well as all personnel who may work or be in contact with the student.
- A final product demonstrating the success in the first four parts must be produced at the end of the term. This product traditionally takes the form of a written report, but that is not the only way to document and prove success. Students should consider and explore all avenues in this area, and a part of the ultimate grade will be based on the student's ability to produce a quality product.
When Should I Choose?
You should begin evaluating your choices immediately. Ideally a student will select the IPT by the end of the second semester or before they complete fifteen hours of study, whichever occurs first.
How Do I Start?
The official process for starting the IPT begins when you file the IPT application. The application must be completed before the semester in which you plan to begin. In addition, each of the choices (IPT) may require the formal filing of additional documentation in order to secure the opportunity for registration. You can find the forms in the appendix to the Graduate Student Handbook.
Where Can I Get More Information?
Your first source for information regarding the IPT is the Graduate Student Handbook. You should read and familiarize yourself with the choices as well as the standards outlined in the book.
The Southern Utah University library maintains an excellent selection of books and reference material to help you with graduate study. Be sure to check the interlibrary loan and electronic collections as well.